16 Things Young People Living With Tourette Syndrome Want You To Know

“I wish people knew that staring at me when I am ticcing makes me feel much worse than just asking me what I’m doing.”

“I feel pretty comfortable explaining my condition. I wish people knew that I am not embarrassed about having Tourette, but am proud to share my story.”

—Mary Kathryn Larson, 17, from Westlake Village, California

Mary Kathryn Larson

“I wish people knew that only about 10% of those with Tourette’s have coprolalia (uncontrollable swearing).”

—Gavin Austin,18, from Albuquerque, New Mexico

Gavin Austin

“There really isn’t a way to just make the tics go away.”

“There are different medications and types of therapy, but what works for one person may not work for another. Unfortunately, at this point in time, there is no cure that can help everyone's tics.”

—Katrina Bergeon, 16, from Litchfield, New Hampshire

Katrina Bergeon

“Tics hurt.”

“I play hockey, so I know pain. Sometimes the pain of repeatedly straining the same muscles for a tic pushes me over the edge. When I say I am tired or grumpy or in pain it's not an excuse or an exaggeration.”